He might not be willing to give up his rugby allegiances to support the Wallabies just yet, but South African Neil Brimacombe says he’s fully behind one of the Goulburn Valley’s, and Australia’s, great icons.
Mr Brimacombe has been appointed chief executive of the cannery and food and beverage manufacturer SPC.
Born in Durban, Mr Brimacombe has relocated to Australia to take up the position at the company, which established its roots in Shepparton and the broader Goulburn Valley more than 100 years ago.
“I’ve spoken to a number of Australians, consumers, customers and the like over the last couple of weeks and without fail, it’s amazing the nostalgia and the positive memories the brand name SPC creates among all consumers in this country,” he said.
“It’s been part of the fabric of society. Australians having grown up with baked beans or SPC fruit or something similar. It’s amazing and it’s just so integrated in this society, and such an amazing story of history.”
Mr Brimacombe said he saw a bright future for the company in the Goulburn Valley, emphasising the company’s commitment to the region.
“Yes I do, and from that perspective, we remain absolutely committed to be part of the fabric of both the Shepparton and Goulburn Valley community, as well as part of Australia’s branded fabric, of course,” he said.
His commitment to the Australian rugby team during the World Cup in September and October is less likely, though.
“That’s a very tough question to ask, but given that I’ve still got a South African passport, in the event of South Africa playing Australia, I think it’s pretty extraordinary of me to switch allegiances, but that said, I was at the Bledisloe Cup shouting for Oz against the Kiwis recently, so certainly, it’s going to be mixed emotions in the World Cup.”